The 34 Best Couples Vacations

Experience romance and adventure on a cruise to the Hawaiian Islands. With just 36 guests on board this boutique yacht, the Safari Explorer takes passengers on an immersive four-island expedition from Kona to Moloka’i for seven nights. During the day, head ashore to hike the Hualalai Volcano on the Big Island, visit the ancient Halawa cathedral valley in Moloka’i and explore Lahaina Town in Maui.

Other highlights of the trip include whale watching while cruising in the Humpback National Marine Sanctuary, snorkeling with giant Pacific manta rays in the warm waters of the Pacific Ocean, and kayaking or taking a skiff ride along the coast. In the evenings, relax over cocktails at sunset as you recap the day’s adventures.

Read: The Best Hawaii Tours

The dramatic scenery in Wales is nothing short of spectacular. Leave the bustling city of Cardiff behind for pastoral country landscapes dotted with ancient castles and free-roaming sheep. Then, head to the coastline to visit one of Wales’ many beautiful beaches, including Barafundle Bay with its golden sands and sparkling emerald waters.

During your trip, splurge on a stay in the Tyddewi Windmill Tower Suite at the luxurious Twr y Felin Hotel in Pembrokeshire, which receives rave reviews. This three-story accommodation sits within the property’s original windmill tower and features panoramic views of the St Davids peninsula from the observatory on the top level. If you’re feeling adventurous, take the leap and go coasteering, an adrenaline-pumping water sport native to Great Britain.

Read: The Best Hotels in Wales

Plan a trip to this tropical paradise for the ultimate romantic getaway. This setting in the Maldives, just a 25-minute boat ride from the Maldives’ international airport, is stunning thanks to its surrounding turquoise waters and pristine white sand beaches. There are 75 luxurious villas on the island of Baros, but for a treat that will guarantee a magical vacation, book one of the property’s Water Pool Villas, set over the water. From there, you’ll be able to dive directly into the lagoon or your private plunge pool, steps away from your bed.

While at the property, indulge in a blissful spa treatment and book a sailing or snorkeling adventure on the private dhoni: a small, traditional sailboat used in the Maldives. Come nighttime, watch spectacular sunsets from the veranda at Lime Restaurant – or plan a romantic dinner for two along the beach.

Read: The Top Overwater Bungalows Around the World

There’s an endless list of things to see and do and places to shop, dine and imbibe for couples visiting New York City. Some of the city’s top attractions include Central Park, the 9/11 Memorial & Museum, the Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island, the Top of the Rock observation deck at Rockefeller Center for panoramic views of the city, and the Metropolitan Museum of Art.

While you’re in town, plan to see a Broadway show or musical, and check out some of the culinary-focused concepts that feature many eateries and bars in one place, such as the Time Out Market in Brooklyn, the Chelsea Market in the Meatpacking District and Eataly Flatiron. Where you stay will depend on some of the romantic things you want to do in town. One excellent choice is the iconic luxury hotel The Lowell located on the Upper East Side. If you reserve accommodations here, you’ll be just minutes away from Madison Avenue, Fifth Avenue and Central Park.

Situated at the foot of Mount Toubkal – the highest peak in North Africa – Kasbah du Toubkal was the first hotel built in the remote Berber village of Imlil, Morocco. Located less than 50 miles south of Marrakech within the 94,000-acre Toubkal National Park, the property and its surreal setting amid the High Atlas Mountains are only accessible by foot or mule.

Kasbah du Toubkal can arrange private tours for adventure-seeking pairs, including overnight and multiday treks or a full-day camel trekking excursion. The property also offers a package that includes an ascent to the top of Mount Toubkal, where – on a clear day – you might even catch a glimpse of the Sahara Desert.

Read: The Most Beautiful Landscapes in the World

Bundle up for an unforgettable 11-day trip from Anchorage to Fairbanks with the John Hall’s Alaska Iditarod and Aurora Adventure. With no more than 26 guests on this Alaska tour, the itinerary features the best of The Great Land’s winter activities for thrill-seeking couples. During the day, take an exhilarating snow-machining or dog-sledding ride through the forest – or go glacier flightseeing in a bush plane. When the sun goes down, you can visit the World Ice Art Championships in Fairbanks and chase the northern lights from the comfort of your geodesic igloo at Borealis Basecamp.

Other highlights include special events around the famed 1,000-mile dogsled race, the Iditarod. Guests on the tour will attend the Mushers Banquet – the ceremonial and official start of the Iditarod – and have privileged access as they fly into a remote checkpoint along the trail during the race.

Head to the Mount Rushmore State to experience a slice of Americana and up-close encounters with local wildlife. You and your partner can drive through the otherworldly landscapes of Badlands National Park and visit Deadwood, the Old West town of legends like Calamity Jane and Wild Bill Hickok.

Head to the Mount Rushmore National Memorial at sunrise to avoid the crowds; it’s also the best time of day to catch an Instagram-worthy moment as the golden rays light up the faces of the four presidents. Then, drive about 20 miles south to stay at one of Custer State Park’s resorts. After settling in, rest up at your cabin or lodge overnight before taking the exciting open-air Buffalo Safari Jeep Tour in the morning.

Read: The Top Things to Do in South Dakota

Plan a romantic escape to this tranquil, luxurious retreat in northern Mallorca, a Spanish island. Located in the Serra de Tramuntana, the Son Brull Rural Sanctuary features 23 uniquely designed rooms with stunning vineyard or valley views. The property also has four two-bedroom Villa Suites offering guests more privacy in a secluded setting. Each villa has its own pool and a private terrace.

The hotel also houses an on-site wellness facility and a spa that offers signature treatments and has a couples massage room. When it’s time to dine, grab a cocktail in the bar, which is set in an 18th-century olive mill, followed by a traditional Mallorcan dinner on the terrace at the 365 Restaurant.

Escape to this tranquil spa resort for a relaxing and romantic trip to remember. Situated in the heart of Napa Valley, the property has a contemporary design that focuses on conscious living and nature with soothing tones and quiet spaces.

For the ultimate private retreat, reserve one of the three signature Maple Grove Villas with amenities like organic linens, handcrafted toiletries and personalized docent service to assist in planning your perfect getaway. Guests of the suites will also enjoy a private cocktail pool – and your spa butler can arrange for a candlelit in-room massage. When it comes to dining, Lucy Restaurant & Bar features field-to-fork dining with ingredients from the property’s organic garden. The resort is also pet-friendly if your furry friend wants to wag along.

Read: The Best Wineries in Napa Valley

Located south of Lake Geneva, Switzerland, this magical destination offers the ideal setting for romance and outdoor adventure. Chamonix sits at the base of the highest mountain in Europe, Mont Blanc, whose summit stands more than 15,700 feet tall. This picturesque locale offers world-class skiing and dining, top-notch spas, and lots of après-ski fun. Reserve accommodations at Hameau Albert 1er, a luxurious Relais & Châteaux property, and plan to dine at its Michelin-starred restaurant. Then, for the thrill of a lifetime, soar through the clouds on a tandem paraglide with Air Sports Chamonix or Les Ailes du Mont-Blanc.

Read: The Top Vacation Destinations in the French Alps

Partners can recharge and reconnect at this adults-only romantic luxury resort located on the island of Aruba in the southern Caribbean Sea. While staying at Bucuti & Tara Beach Resort, schedule a couples massage, join in complimentary wellness activities such as oceanfront Pilates classes, and take time to relax by the pool or beach.

Then, head to SandBar for its daily Healthy Hour (complete with mocktails) or enjoy live music and signature cocktails in the evening. Plan to experience a dramatic sunset while dining in your private palapa on the beach, watching as the sky changes from brilliant pinks and purples to a fiery burnt orange.

Read: The Top Adults-Only All-Inclusive Resorts

Turn the clock back to medieval times with a visit to this stunning 800-year-old castle that was once home to the Guinness family. The one-of-a-kind experience at Ashford Castle begins with your elegantly appointed castle room or suite with views overlooking the 350-acre estate or Lough Corrib, Ireland’s second-largest freshwater lake.

Outdoor adventure activities at the property include horseback riding, hiking, clay shooting, fishing and golf. You can also take a Hawk Walk with one of these majestic creatures at the oldest established falconry school in Ireland and go on a morning dog walk with the castle’s three resident canines: Mulligan, Dubh and Shay. The destination resort has several options for dining and cocktails, including the formal George V Dining Room and The Prince of Wales Bar. For a more relaxed affair, take a stroll over the bridge that crosses a moat and spend the evening at Cullen’s at the Cottage.

This luxurious Mediterranean-inspired resort on Florida’s Atlantic Coast is the perfect destination for a romantic weekend getaway or honeymoon. Acqualina Resort‘s spacious Classic Suites offer privacy, king-bedded rooms, a separate living area and expansive views of the ocean. The resort also features several internationally inspired dining venues at the property, including the elegant Il Mulino New York.

During your stay, indulge with a couples massage at the Royal Spa Suite, which boasts a private steam room and rainforest shower. There’s also an adults-only pool with cabanas and daybeds – and you can arrange for special activities such as a picnic on the grounds and a magical candlelit beachfront dinner. If you’re ready to pop the question, the proposal concierge will cater to your every whim when it comes to your once-in-a-lifetime moment.

The picturesque walled city of Lucca is arguably one of the most beautiful destinations in Tuscany. Couples can stroll hand in hand along the medieval cobblestone streets to the more than 1,000-year-old Church of San Michele in Foro. Then, make your way to the central Piazza dell’Anfiteatro. Once the site of a Roman amphitheater, the plaza is now the heart of the town, filled to the brim with charming outdoor cafes. Reserve a hotel in the heart of Lucca, such as the lovely Palazzo Dipinto. From there, you can explore nearby Pisa, the golden beaches of Versilia on the Tuscan coast and the mountainous region of Garfagnana.

Situated on Florida’s Gulf Coast, Sarasota offers the perfect mix of relaxation, outdoor adventure and cultural attractions. The area is home to one of the most beautiful beaches in the U.S., Siesta Key, and it boasts 60-plus golf courses open year-round.

Plan to spend a day visiting The John and Mable Ringling Museum of Art. This 66-acre property is home to the Ringling’s remarkable art collection and Ca’ d’Zan, the 36,000-square-foot Venetian-inspired waterfront estate and grounds of the wealthy circus proprietor. You can even view old circus artifacts, including costumes, parade wagons, props and a cannon.

When it’s time to relax, splurge on a romantic room with a view at The Ritz-Carlton, Sarasota. Located in the heart of downtown and overlooking Sarasota Bay, this luxury property is close to the city’s museums, performing arts venues, shops and restaurants.

Wine and food lovers will appreciate Sonoma’s extraordinary cuisine, beautiful landscapes and renowned wine. With 19 distinct wine regions, more than 425 wineries and almost 60,000 acres of vineyards, Sonoma is home to some fantastic vineyards and tasting rooms in Dry Creek Valley, Alexander Valley, the Russian River Valley and the other appellations. Once you’ve had several days of indulging in the region’s delicious wines and food, head for the stunning Pacific coastline for a romantic and relaxing stay at the oceanfront Lodge at Bodega Bay. You may even spot a few migrating whales at famed Bodega Bay.

Read: The Top Sonoma Wineries to Visit

Cruise Europe’s iconic waterways to some of the world’s most enchanting Christmas markets for a memorable holiday vacation. Sip mulled wine with your sweetheart as you stroll through the stalls, savoring the fragrant smells of roasted sausages, warm kartoffelpuffer (potato pancakes), dresdner handbrot (savory breads stuffed with mushrooms and cheese) and spicy lebkuchen (gingerbread).

Be sure to shop for handmade local crafts to take home as gifts. Then, return to the ship for holiday-themed dining and entertainment. Many river cruise companies offer these annual sailings, including AmaWaterways, Emerald Cruises, Avalon Waterways, Uniworld Boutique River Cruises, Viking River Cruises and Tauck.

Read: The Best Christmas Lights Displays in the U.S.

Manuel Antonio National Park is a spectacular Costa Rica destination, thanks to its lush rainforest, abundant wildlife and stunning beaches. Plan your couples getaway to experience Arenas del Mar Beachfront & Rainforest Resort. This private 11-acre luxury property sits in a rainforest reserve with two beaches that’s within walking distance to the park.

The resort assists guests with booking nearby activities, such as hiking tours to visit the Nauyaca waterfall, horseback riding in the Cerro Nara mountains, zip lining through the rainforest at Tarzan Canopy and whitewater rafting on the Naranjo River. You can even go surfboarding or take a guided night walk in the forest, when nocturnal wildlife comes alive. After an adventurous day in the park, relax at Las Brisas Wellness Center with a signature spa treatment. Then, watch the gorgeous sunset over the Pacific Ocean from your ocean view suite’s private hot tub.

Nantucket is an ideal romantic vacation spot for two. This picturesque island is located just 30 miles off the coast of Cape Cod and is reachable year-round by plane or by ferry. Couples can explore the rugged beaches of Coskata-Coatue Wildlife Refuge, book a 90-minute daytime sail or private charter on the Endeavor, or stroll through Nantucket‘s historic area. Then, return to relax at your waterfront hotel, the White Elephant, where you can sip Champagne in lounge chairs on the lawn at sunset. In the morning, don’t miss the spectacular sunrise over the harbor.

The 90-mile stretch of rugged coastline along California’s Highway 1 is one of the most scenic drives in the U.S. As you drive southbound from Carmel to San Simeon, you’ll be rewarded with breathtaking views of the Santa Lucia Mountains on one side, cliffs overlooking the Pacific Coast on the opposite side and towering ancient redwoods.

Plan to spend a few days in a room with an ocean view at the famed Post Ranch Inn while making the trip. This beautiful luxury property is located around 30 miles south of Carmel-by-the-Sea on Highway 1. Several highlights you won’t want to miss along the coastal route include the 80-foot-high waterfall that cascades over the granite cliffs into the Monterey Bay National Marine Sanctuary at Julia Pfeiffer Burns State Park; the purple sand and rock arches at Pfeiffer Beach; and a visit to Hearst Castle once you reach San Simeon.

Read: The Top Romantic Getaways in California

Arizona’s Sonoran Desert offers lovebirds outdoor adventure, an urban landscape, and world-class resorts and dining. Splurge on a luxurious Southwest-inspired guest room or suite with views of Camelback Mountain at The Canyon Suites at The Phoenician, a 60-room boutique property. During the day, arrange for a round of golf, relax in a poolside cabana or book an invigorating couples massage at the property’s 37,000-square-foot Phoenician Spa. For dinner with a view of Scottsdale’s brilliant sunsets, reserve a table on the patio at J&G Steakhouse.

If you want to head off the property to explore, go hiking in the McDowell Sonoran Preserve or soar high above the desert at sunrise with Hot Air Expeditions. Don’t miss a visit to Old Town Scottsdale to go shopping, sample Arizona wines at tasting rooms on the Scottsdale Wine Trail and enjoy a romantic evening with a four-course dinner at the renowned Café Monarch.

Head to the Southwest to tour several of the most notable national parks and attractions in America. Sit back and enjoy the ride on a nine-day guided adventure with EF Go Ahead Tours, which starts in Phoenix, Arizona, and features visits to the Grand Canyon as well as Zion and Bryce Canyon national parks.

Other highlights include the otherworldly sandstone landscape at Lake Powell in Utah and an evening visit to the Navajo Red Heritage center. For a truly memorable experience with your partner, book a helicopter ride to soar over the rim of the Grand Canyon. The adventure ends in Las Vegas with a farewell celebration and an evening to enjoy the nightlife and entertainment along the Vegas strip.

For a quiet romantic getaway along Lake Tahoe‘s historic West Shore, reserve a cozy room with an “Old Tahoe” feel at The Cottage Inn. This rustic bed-and-breakfast, located just 2 miles south of Tahoe City, features 22 unique accommodations, including two rooms perfect for a relaxing couples getaway. The Romantic Hideaway has a queen bed, a fireplace and a soaking tub for two. The Dream Catcher, a deluxe suite on the second floor, features amenities such as a king bed, a fireplace, a soaking tub for two and a private deck with lake vistas.

In the morning, guests enjoy a complimentary lodge-prepared breakfast, and you get key card access to a private beach, located just steps away. There are also many restaurants close by and plenty of year-round activities to enjoy around Lake Tahoe, including top-notch skiing, snowshoeing, hiking, sailing and fishing.

Read: The Top Lake Vacations in the U.S.

Paris is synonymous with romance. It’s also one of the most beautiful cities in the world. First-time visitors to Paris will want to experience iconic sights like The Louvre, the Champs-Élysées and the Arc de Triomphe.

For a different perspective, take the elevator to the top of the Eiffel Tower to the Champagne Bar, where you can sip a glass of bubbly with panoramic views of the City of Light and the Seine River. Back on the ground, check out the nightly sparkling light display that illuminates the tower for five minutes every hour on the hour. Be sure to leave plenty of time to shop in the city, linger over coffee and croissants at outdoor cafes, and dine on classic French dishes at local bistros.

Regarded as one of the most scenic routes in New England, this drive through south-central Vermont winds along the eastern side of the Green Mountains. The route is popular year-round, offering access to superb skiing, fishing, hiking and biking. It’s also a historically and culturally rich area awash with classic New England towns.

Plan to visit several of the oldest cheese producers in the U.S. along the Okemo Valley Cheese Trail. The hill town of Plymouth Notch is also worth a stop to see the former home of the 30th U.S. president, the Calvin Coolidge State Historic Site. This route is especially stunning as the leaves begin to change during the fall.

The resort town of Jackson Hole offers astounding natural beauty 365 days a year. The jagged mountain peaks of Grand Teton National Park dominate the landscape, with the highest point, Grand Teton, standing tall at 13,770 feet. In the winter months, the area is one of the top-ranked ski destinations in the U.S. Plan a romantic escape with reservations at the Four Seasons Resort and Residences Jackson Hole. The property features slope-side access to Rendezvous Mountain in the Jackson Hole Mountain Resort.

The property also offers many activities, including a horse-drawn sleigh ride, heli-skiing and a wildlife safari. You can also splurge on a once-in-a-lifetime excursion – a private flight into Yellowstone National Park to spend a day with the wolves. This epic adventure includes a naturalist guide and accommodates up to eight guests. After a busy day of outdoor adventure, grab a locally brewed cold beer and casual fare at The Handle Bar. This venue features cozy indoor seating, outdoor fire pits and panoramic views of the Teton Range.

For a romantic food- and beverage-focused escape, head to the city of Greenville. The city’s burgeoning culinary and cocktail scene is exciting, with plenty of new spots to check out while in town. If you reserve accommodations at the AC Hotel by Marriott Greenville, you can walk to many restaurants and bars, including CAMP, located steps away from the property.

After dinner, head upstairs to the hotel’s rooftop bar, Juniper, for a nightcap, or check out The Press Room, a speakeasy hidden within the property. You can also share your love for food during a cooking class at The Cook’s Station or grab a picnic lunch at Reid’s Fine Foods to enjoy outdoors at Falls Park. If you’re traveling in mid-September, don’t miss Euphoria, Greenville’s food and wine festival boasting live entertainment and other special events.

The vibrant capital city of Lisbon is captivating. Situated along the picturesque Tagus river, the city is built across seven steep hills and boasts 290 days of sunshine on average plus moderate temperatures year-round. While in Lisbon, duos should see must-visit historic and cultural sites such as Belém Tower, explore colorful neighborhoods like Alfama, and go shopping in the trendy suburb of Príncipe Real.

Make your way to the top of Miradouro da Senhora do Monte for a romantic setting and spectacular panoramic views of the city. After a day of exploring, escape to your hilltop retreat in the fashionable Lapa Hill district, the Olissippo Lapa Palace. Once a private home, this elegant boutique property overlooks the city and the Tagus.

This Mediterranean-inspired property located on California’s Monterey Peninsula features 24 beautifully appointed estate rooms and studios. For a special celebration at Casa Palmero, reserve one of the spacious spa rooms equipped with a private courtyard and whirlpool spa. Spend days golfing on internationally acclaimed courses or relax with a massage at the hotel’s award-winning spa. At sunset, sip signature cocktails at The Bench (located at sister property The Lodge at Pebble Beach) with views overlooking the famed 18th hole at Pebble Beach Golf Links.

Song Saa Private Island is an off-the-radar sustainable luxury resort located in the Koh Rong archipelago, just 45 minutes by boat from Sihanoukville, Cambodia. Book one of 24 private pool villa-style accommodations – including one-bedroom overwater villas – and spend your days doing as little or as much as you’d like.

The property offers safari trips, scuba diving, meditation, sea kayaking and even a trip to one of the few places in the world where you can view bioluminescent plankton after dark. For a laid-back evening, request a cozy in-villa movie night for two. Culinary options at Song Saa include globally inspired dishes at Vista Bar and Restaurant, with warm sea breezes and endless ocean views. Or, for a special treat, arrange for a romantic dinner for two on the property’s pristine white sand beach.

This 1,000-acre private island in the Turks and Caicos is perfect for a luxurious getaway for two. COMO Parrot Cay‘s accommodations range from rooms and suites to larger villas. Recharge with Asian-inspired and holistic treatments through the wellness program at COMO Shambhala Retreat. Guests can delight in the Caribbean- and Mediterranean-style fare that features locally sourced fresh seafood at the on-site restaurants. For a celebratory evening, arrange for a romantic candlelit beach dinner under the stars.

Indulge in an all-inclusive, adults-only experience at Excellence Playa Mujeres. Every spacious suite at this Cancún property features a hot tub and outdoor space to admire the beautiful ocean or resort. You can also splurge on one of the two-story terrace suites, complete with a private rooftop plunge pool. The property is home to around two dozens bars and restaurants, complete with craft cocktails and international cuisine, as well as a luxurious spa and seven pools. After taking advantage of all the resort’s amenities, return to your suite in the evening to enjoy a bottle of chilled Champagne with a view from your private terrace.

Read: The Top Adults-Only All-Inclusive Resorts in Mexico

Gwen Pratesi is an avid adventurer and culinary explorer who has covered international travel since 2009. She has been to Europe numerous times, sailed on cruise ships in destinations around the world, traveled to the White Continent in Antarctica, and gone swimming with the giant manta rays and blacktip sharks in Galápagos during an expedition. She writes about the travel and the culinary industry for major publications, including U.S. News & World Report.

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